Graceland University is a community dedicated to exceptional higher education, and grounded in the core values of caring and concern. On our two campuses in Lamoni, IA and Independence, MO, as well as through our online programs and other partnerships, we seek to bring out the full potential of each and every student in the Graceland community. While we steadfastly support our core programs, we are continually innovative, responding to the needs of our ever-evolving student body.
Founded in 1895, and sponsored by the Community of Christ, Graceland University is more than just a school; it's a collective of dedicated, caring, and compassionate individuals. Our relationship with our students does not stop at graduation-our close-knit alumni community reaches far beyond a student's time on campus.
Students who come to Graceland often tell us it was the best decision they ever made.

Some basic facts about Graceland University:

• Our total enrollment is 2,300 students.
• The main, residential campus, located in Lamoni, Iowa offers 36 undergraduate majors and 60 degree options, 19 varsity sports, and a full program of intramural sports and campus-wide activities.
• Our high-tech, 55,000-square-foot urban campus in Independence, MO houses our School of Nursing and the Community of Christ Seminary.
• Other programs offered through the Independence campus include: undergraduate and graduate Education programs and an undergraduate Business Administration program.
• Our Online Programs include Master of Education; Master of Nursing, RN to BSN, RN to MSN; and a BA in Health Care.
• We are affiliated with SkillPath, National Training Seminars, and CompuMaster to provide seminars for our Professional Development and Lifelong Learning program.
• Graceland is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA); the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education; the Iowa Department of Education; the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; and the Coordinating Board for Higher Education.
• We have approval from the Iowa Board of Nursing and the Missouri Board of Nursing.

Mission Statement

Graceland University educates students for advanced study, for productive careers, and for rich lives. Its student body is a targeted, yet diverse group that includes persons of different ages, backgrounds, and national origins who share a commitment to learning. Its curriculum, firmly rooted in the liberal arts tradition and enhanced by career-oriented practical experiences, affirms different styles of learning and prepares students to become competent professionals. Its highly qualified faculty excel in teaching and engage in scholarly, creative and professional activities. Together with the administration and staff, they care deeply about students.
Graceland offers a learning environment for the residential as well as the non-residential student that nurtures personal growth. Its challenging academic program stresses the joy of lifelong learning, the rigor of intellectual discipline, and the relationship of both to a satisfying professional and personal life. Its size fosters genuine concern for the individual while providing fellowship and a sense of belonging. For the residential student, its rich co-curricular program of interest groups, athletics, student government, residential life, and leisure activities provides opportunity to develop interpersonal skills, relationships, creativity, and leadership.
Based on the Christian values of human dignity, mutual respect, and social responsibility, Graceland welcomes persons of all faiths. It actively supports the counsel of its sponsoring denomination, the Community of Christ, to “seek learning even by study, and also by faith” and indeed offers tangible expression of the church’s commitment to the open and free pursuit of knowledge through higher education.
Graceland promotes opportunity, justice, and world peace through practical and visionary action.

Vision, Mission, Values Vision Graceland University will become a recognized educational leader, inspiring and empowering persons for transformational service and leadership. Mission Graceland creates learning communities where students develop their potential for meaningful and productive lives. Values Graceland values learning, wholeness, and community. Graceland encourages the development of these values for the enrichment of lives and the betterment of the world. Learning We believe in the life long process of the open and free pursuit of truth. Wholeness We believe that the development of the intellectual, physical, social, and spiritual dimensions of all persons is necessary for healthy and fulfilling lives. Community We appreciate and welcome diversity and, as an institution sponsored by the Community of Christ, believe in the inherent worth of all persons expressed through relationships built on the foundation of unconditional love and acceptance.